"Still didn't know how contract termination works?" — Internet divided as NewJeans stands in solidarity, slams HYBE and ADOR for "suspending careers"

On January 23, 2025, Chosun Ilbo (Sports Chosun) reported that NewJeans claimed that ADOR and HYBE constantly harassed them despite terminating their contract. Their accusations surfaced when the group asked followers for proposals for a new group name in a post on its secondary Instagram profile, @jeanzforfree.

This move has been interpreted by many as a clear indication that the group intends to pursue their careers independently, regardless of the outcome of the legal battle with ADOR.

"ADOR and HYBE have been constantly harassing and attacking us like before, telling us to come back, but away from the public eye, they have been meeting with some of our parents in secret to try to persuade them or cause discord," NewJeans claimed.

NewJeans slammed ADOR and HYBE for allegedly ending their careers and stated that the company tried "suspending" their entertainment careers.

"There have been big and small interferences throughout our activities, and they have even disguised their words of 'suspending our entertainment careers' as 'long-term vacations' in order to virtually abandon and replace us," they shared.

According to OSEN News, ADOR issued a warning in response, citing a serious "breach of contract."

"ADOR's position is that the exclusive contract (with NewJeans) is valid, and we are faithfully cooperating with the court proceedings. We regret that the members are attempting to pursue independent entertainment activities, such as soliciting new stage names, before receiving legal judgment, as this could be a serious breach of contract," the HYBE subsidiary label stated.

The situation sparked a debate among fans and industry observers. Some noted that the group was potentially jeopardizing their careers and breaching contractual obligations. Netizens discussed how contract termination requires both parties to have a mutual agreement, and NewJeans should have been aware of it.

Several netizens sided with ADOR for seeking legal verification over the contract termination.

"So they still didn’t know how contract termination works?" one fan wrote.

Netizens stated that HYBE and ADOR were "lenient" with NewJeans throughout the conflict.

"In all seriousness… ADOR and HYBE have been toooooooooooo lenient with them. Idol with attitude like this is so done in other companies," one netizen wrote.

"Also, not them using the same lawfirm as MHJ herself lmaoooo because it's the 'right fit for them' or the one your Queen Mother assigned? Girls have NOTHING to fight ADOR/HYBE on & everything is against them which they KNOW. If they were brave they would have filed to terminate," another netizen noted.

"I dont understand what is these girls' problems? What exact evidence are there that state that Ador and Hybe violated NJ contract and mistreated them?" one other netizen stated.

Several netizens stated that they felt bad for the girl groups and blamed former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin for allegedly "brainwashing" the members.

"I feel so sorry for these little girls. While HYBE IS a horrible company, without a doubt, I can't fathom how deeply they have been brainwashed by Min HeeJin. I will never forget the things this woman made the underaged NCT Dream do, and the same kind of ped*phillic art style," a netizen said.

"I really think they need a law firm that can keep their interests separated from MHJ's. It's so clear they have no idea how much danger they're in and the trouble they're causing to the industry and how horrible they've been to their seniors and juniors," another fan stated.

"I’ve been in this battle long enough to notice the MHJ style of press release," one other netizen added.

Disclaimer: This article aims to provide a general overview of the situation and does not constitute legal or financial advice.

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Can NewJeans still use their group name after leaving ADOR? Current details explored

The group announced the termination of their contracts on November 28, 2024, citing numerous grievances and a breakdown of trust with the label. In a dramatic press conference, the members of NewJeans detailed their experiences, accusing ADOR of:

• Workplace harassment: The group alleged that they were subjected to excessive control, long working hours, and emotional manipulation.
• Contractual breaches: NewJeans claimed that ADOR repeatedly violated the terms of their contracts, including promises regarding creative freedom and fair compensation.
• Lack of support: The group asserted that ADOR failed to provide adequate support for their mental and physical health, leading to significant personal and professional strain.

Following the announcement, ADOR swiftly filed a lawsuit to contest the contract termination on December 3, 2024, arguing that the group had no legal grounds to unilaterally break their agreements. The label maintained that it had always acted in the best interests of NewJeans and denied all allegations of wrongdoing.

It is important to note that even if the group successfully terminates their contracts, they may face legal obstacles in continuing to use the name "NewJeans." The group name is considered intellectual property and likely belongs to ADOR or HYBE. The agency registered trademarks for the group name, logo, and associated branding.

Using the name "NewJeans" without proper authorization could lead to copyright infringement lawsuits and potential legal penalties.

If ADOR or HYBE prevails in court, they could issue cease and desist orders, forcing the group to stop using the name or work elsewhere. If the court finds that NewJeans breached their contracts, they could face substantial financial penalties between $300 million to $450 million, as per a December 2024 report by The Korea Times.

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In other news, former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin resigned from HYBE's shareholders board and as ADOR's internal director on November 20, 2024. Previously, she was fired from the CEO post in August 2024 for breach of contract.